Abstract

Background: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is one of the most common procedures for the treatment of hydrocephalus. However, there are a number of complications associated with it.
Case Presentation: We aim to present a rare complication of complete intraventricular migration of the VPS system. Our patient was a 12-month-old child who presented 8 months following placement of a right VPS for congenital hydrocephalus. He complained of progressive enlargement of head and vomiting. Examination did not reveal any palpable shunt under the skin on head, neck, or torso. An X-ray showed the presence of the complete shunt coiled within the ventricles. The shunt was removed endoscopically and third ventriculostomy was performed.
Conclusion: Complete intracranial migration of VPS is a rare complication and can be avoided by making a small burr hole and careful anchoring of shunt. Trans-cranial endoscope is a useful tool for retrieval in such case and avoid more invasive procedure.

Key words: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt, intracranial migration, endoscopy, shunt reservoir